Cerebrovascular pulsation and width of subarachnoid space during electroconvulsive therapy.

Background: The mechanism of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has not been comprehensively explained. A new noninvasive method of monitoring intracranial homeostasis during and after ECT provides additional insight into the mechanism of ECT. The investigations on changes in the width of the subarachnoid space (SAS) and intracranial pulsation amplitude by near infrared-transillumination/backscattering sounding method can throw new light on changes in type and volume induced by ECT.

[A case of schizophrenia-like psychosis in a patient with arachnoid cyst].

The aim of this report was the presentation of the extremely rare case of the arachnoid cyst of the brain, with only psychiatric manifestation. According to the literature and own experience the authors conclude, that the treatment of these patients would be interdisciplinary, both neurosurgical and psychiatric.

[Evaluation of the diagnostic value of using laboratory markers for determining alcohol abuse].

GGT (gammaglutamyl-transpeptidase) activity and HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol were assayed in the group of 67 alcohol addicts entering a detoxication treatment after a period of an intensive drinking. The same assays were repeated following 1-2 and 6-12 days of the abstinence. Both markers have shown high values in about 80% of patients immediately after the period of heavy drinking.